2016 Story roundup from expats who know China best

China: An Incredible Journey

Khurram Raza

In summing up my experience being in China, it's been an astonishing time so far to be acquainted with all the marvellous places, delicious food and generous people. These are certainly the golden memories of my life which I want to share. The tourism industry in China has been innovative and sets a benchmark for countries who want to promote their tourism and culture. I recommend people who want to travel around the world visit China...[More]

China, a harmonious blend of glorious history

Sava Hassan

After living in China for 14 years, I am often asked to describe it or, more precisely, give my impression of it. Of course, I am always delighted to oblige. Most of the time, I describe China as a harmonious blend of glorious history, virtues and contradictions. Consequently, people request elaboration on my description, which prompted me to write this article in order to satisfy their curiosity and to pay homage to my beloved China...[More]

Fun and fear on Taobao odyssey

Lisa Ward

Sometimes you find gemstones and at other times rocks. Still, it is preferable to brick and mortar shops in China these days, which mostly disappoint Chinese and foreign tourists alike with their lack of variety and higher prices. To get more for my yuan and to quell my shopping cravings, I’ll stick with Taobao for the moment.[More]

Reminiscing 20 days in Beijing

Lala Rukh

My 20-day stay is Beijing was a memorable experience. It was not only a learning opportunity but a chance to broaden my understanding of diversity as well. I learned that despite differences of color, height, ethnicity and religion, all human beings are tied by the bond of humanity. And that the future of nations is global with mutual development and peace.[More]

How I spend my birthday in China

Shark Minnow

I think it's impossible not to feel good on your birthday, so I just wanted to share some good vibes with all the Forum readers here. Thirty-eight years today, 12 of them in China. And I'm a pretty happy guy these days, I must be doing something right! [More]

Teaching in China Story: hilarious Moments

Kathy Krejados

I've often expounded on the mirth,merriment and joy of teaching in China, but I have never compiled a collection of such moments, even though I've written individual articles about some ofthose times. Now seems like a good time, just starting out my seventh year ofleading classes, to reflect on some of the funnier, and more embarrassing,times in the classroom. I hope you will end up gasping for breath fromlaughing, like I did and still do, as I recall...[More]

China is my second home

Sidney Mangenda Tshiaba

I always say China is my second Home. It’s a massive country, extremely diverse culturally, ethnically and linguistically, with an astoundingly rich history. Unlike many other countries in this world, literally every province has their own little story to tell. When you combine them, it is truly overwhelming to apprehend. It’s amazing how they managed to keep detailed records of the ancient times.[More]

A Chinese Malaysian's encounter in a train cabin

Kuan Yong

I have been in China since 2014. The first thought I had was, “Oh, being a foreigner has a certain advantage”. Then I realized that’s for a westerner. Being a 3rd generation Malaysian Chinese coming to China for first time really opened my mind to how the mainland has forgotten about the overseas Chinese Diaspora. As I vividly recalled, it was in August 2015 that I took a train from Shenzhen to Xiamen. It was cozy and comfortable because...[More]

A Somali's Chinese dream

Hodan

Socrates once said: "The happiest thing in the world is to fight for your ideals." The past 10 years have been the happiest in my life. I devoted my youth completely to the ideal of acquiring knowledge, and got incalculable rewards. I especially appreciate Li Kaifu's words, when he said: "Lead your life with a dream. Lead your life with gratitude, and a sincere and helping attitude. Lead your life with persistence, fearlessness and an optimistic attitude." Thanks for the cultivation of Yangzhou University, Zhejiang Normal University and Zhejiang University, and thanks for the help of CSC.[More]

No students for class

Michael Murphy

     One thing that foreigners are not used to in China is how quickly and dramatically a schedule can change. In Western culture, change is extremely rare and the schedule is known for at least a year in advance and is very unlikely to ever change. Even when it does change, administrators will give you several weeks advance notice so that you can plan accordingly.[More]

Ruijin county: A testament to the Long March

Eddie Turkson

  It might not be the most popular county in China. It hasn't got the buzz and shine of some of China's finest cities. But today Ruijin county, the small farming community in East China's Jiangxi province, enjoys a lot of tranquillity compared to the period when it came under siege right before the historic Long March.[More]